Yes, but watch them constantly near stairs and drop-offs. Younger children (under 5) may struggle with the steepness or be intimidated by heights.

No. Only the park entrance fee ($35 for a vehicle) is required.

Weeping Rock

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, it's heavily trafficked and near the main park area. Carry water, tell someone where you're going, and watch for minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Q: Do I need special gear?

No. Good hiking shoes with grip are sufficient. Trekking poles optional but helpful on the descent. Bring plenty of water—there's no source on the trail.

Q: Why is the trail sometimes closed?

Rockfall from above can temporarily close the trail. Always check the NPS website or visitor center before starting.

Q: What makes the 'weeping' rock weep?

It's a natural spring seep—water filtering through the rock face and dripping down, creating the hanging gardens. A reliable water source for the desert ecosystem.

Overview

About This Trail

This is a paved hike that punches above its weight. Just 0.4 miles and 98 feet of elevation gain, but the grade is relentless—you'll feel every step. The payoff: a rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs, plus trailside exhibits. Most hikers complete it in 15-45 minutes, but don't underestimate the steepness or the minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs. Hanging garden ecosystem featuring desert seeps.

Insider Tips

• The springs above the alcove create the 'weeping' effect—look up as well as down. • The trail is short enough to pair with nearby hikes like Riverside Walk or Pa'rus Trail. • The steepness is front-loaded on the return; the descent is harder on knees than the ascent. • Shadows from the alcove make the spot cooler—a midday escape.

Best Season to Hike

Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

Hydrate hard—no water on trail. 1 liter minimum.
Wear boots with good grip. Stairs are slippery when wet.
The steepness front-loads; the descent punishes knees. Trekking poles save your joints.
This is a lung-buster disguised as short. Don't get caught off-guard.

Family Info

Yes, but with caution. The paved surface works early on, but stairs at the end require careful footing. Keep young children close to drop-offs. The steepness may tire younger kids; pace accordingly.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 98 ft

Duration: 15-45 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Paved with stairs

Getting There

Trailhead: Weeping Rock Trailhead, Shuttle Stop 7, Zion Canyon

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required. Park entrance fee applies.

Fees: $35 for a private vehicle (includes shuttle access during shuttle season).

Shuttle Required

Zion Canyon shuttle-only roughly March through late November. Shuttle included with park entrance fee ($35 private vehicle).

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Pets are not allowed on any trail other than the Pa'rus Trail.

Trail Markers: Well-marked paved trail. The alcove is obvious destination—difficult to get lost.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on trail. Carry water (1+ liter recommended).

Shade: Minimal. Mostly exposed, paved surface. Hat and sunscreen essential.

Hazards:

Trail includes minor drop-offs along the paved section and stairs at the end. Steepness surprises unprepared hikers. Stairs are slippery when wet. Rockfall risk from the alcove above.

Emergency: Call 911 in emergencies. Zion Rangers patrol the area. Visitor assistance at Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very busy, especially during peak season (March-October).

Peak Times: Mornings (7 AM - 10 AM) and midday (11 AM - 2 PM), especially March through October.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Short but steep paved trail that gains 98ft (30m) of elevation in 0.4mi (0.6km). Minor drop-offs. Trail includes several stairs.

Family Notes:

Yes, but with caution. The paved surface works early on, but stairs at the end require careful footing. Keep young children close to drop-offs. The steepness may tire younger kids; pace accordingly.

Nearby Facilities

Pit toilets at parking area. Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum nearby. No water sources on trail itself.

FAQs

Is this trail doable if I'm not very fit?

Yes, but go slow. It's only 0.4 miles, but the grade is steep—allow 30-45 minutes. Take breaks if you need to. Most hikers manage it.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear?

Can my kids do this?

Why is the trail sometimes closed?

Do I need a permit?

What makes the 'weeping' rock weep?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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